Smriti Mandhana Appointed as UNICEF India's Celebrity Advocate for Girls' Rights
UNICEF India Welcomes Smriti Mandhana
On Sunday, UNICEF India announced that renowned cricketer Smriti Mandhana has been appointed as a Celebrity Advocate for the UN Child Rights Agency. In this new capacity, Mandhana aims to enhance her previous efforts in advocating for equal rights and opportunities for children and youth.
Highlighting Girls' Rights
This announcement coincided with the International Day of the Girl Child on October 11, emphasizing the importance of girls' rights, protection, potential, and leadership. It also sheds light on the obstacles that hinder their choices globally. As a prominent figure and inspiration for young women and girls in India, Mandhana will work towards ensuring equal opportunities for girls to engage in sports and excel.
Mandhana's Perspective on Her Role
Expressing her excitement, Mandhana stated, "I am privileged to join UNICEF India as its Celebrity Advocate. My journey in cricket taught me that every dream starts with an opportunity. With dedication and support, that opportunity can lead to remarkable achievements. Every child deserves the chance to aspire and realize their full potential."
A Celebrated Cricket Star
Mandhana, an Arjuna Award recipient and captain of the Indian women's cricket team, has made significant contributions to the sport. She played a key role in securing India's first ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup title in 2025. That same year, she became the first woman to surpass 1,000 One Day International (ODI) runs in a single calendar year, achieving five ODI centuries. In 2026, she emerged as the leading run-scorer in women's international cricket and T20 internationals, holding the title of the world's top-ranked women's ODI batter and earning the ICC Women’s Cricketer of the Year award twice.
UNICEF's Commitment to Girls' Empowerment
Cynthia McCaffrey, UNICEF India's Representative, expressed enthusiasm about Mandhana's appointment, stating, "We are thrilled to have Smriti Mandhana as our Celebrity Advocate on the International Day of the Girl Child. Her journey from a young athlete to a global cricket star exemplifies what is achievable when talent meets opportunity. With India housing the largest generation of children and youth, investing in girls' rights and leadership is crucial for the nation's future. We eagerly anticipate collaborating with Smriti to ensure every girl has the opportunity to learn, play, lead, and achieve her dreams."
Promoting Girls' Rights in India
Mandhana has previously supported UNICEF-ICC initiatives focused on gender equality and life skills, along with the Promise to Children campaign. India is home to 253 million adolescents, representing one-fifth of its population and 21% of the global adolescent demographic. While access to education, health, and protection services has improved, challenges remain. Children from underprivileged urban and rural areas continue to experience poverty and limited access to quality services. Adolescent girls face numerous vulnerabilities that restrict their choices regarding education, work, marriage, and social interactions.
UNICEF collaborates with governments, communities, civil society, and youth to promote the rights and opportunities of adolescent girls. The organization equips girls with essential knowledge, life skills, leadership opportunities, and safe environments to make informed decisions about their education, health, and futures. Additionally, UNICEF partners with families and communities to challenge harmful gender norms, enhance support systems, keep girls in school, expand social protection, and connect them with skills and livelihood pathways, empowering them to learn, lead, thrive, and postpone marriage.